ITIN Loans: Best Capital Source for Minority Businesses

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The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) of the US government announced the implementation of the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). This is a temporary identification for immigrants that allows them to file their taxes and potentially apply for ITIN loans.

ITIN holders can used these identifiers to get work contracts, obtain driving licenses (in some states), or provide a proof of residency if necessary.

Also, a person doesn’t need to live in the US to apply for an ITIN. Small business owners living in other countries may want one in order to increase investment in their organizations.

An ITIN holder must revalidate their ITIN every five years. Additionally, if you are an ITIN holder and you don’t use it for three consecutive years, it will expire and you’ll have to revalidate it.

What Are ITIN Loans?

The ITIN is a nine-digit number that helps foreigners process their federal tax transactions and potentially apply for loans regardless of their migratory status. An ITIN loan is a financial solution for businesses whose owner doesn’t have a SSN.

How Is the ITIN Different from the SSN?

Even though the ITIN is made for tax payment, it is not the same as the Social Security Number (SSN). They are different and independent from each other. Only US citizens can obtain a Social Security Number. Meanwhile, the ITIN is a method only for non-citizens to identify all of their tax-related transactions or to apply for a loan.

What Are ITIN’s Not Used For?

An ITIN will not provide you with immigration status. An ITIN is not an authorization to work in US territory. Neither does it make a person eligible for Social Security benefits. Likewise, ITIN holders do not have access to tax and public benefits as SSN holders do.

ITIN holders are not eligible for all of the tax benefits and public benefits that US citizens and other taxpayers can receive. For example, an ITIN holder is not eligible for Social Security benefits or the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Its chief benefits are for tax-paying purposes as well as ITIN loans.

How Can Someone Get an ITIN?

You can find the instructions for the application process for an ITIN number on the IRS website.

First of all, the person must download a W-7 form and fill it out. Then, add any identification document that validates your nationality, such as a driver’s license or a passport. It is best to also add the previous tax return to the application.

Finally, fax the form or take it to an IRS office. If you have questions, call the toll-free number for the IRS, 1-800-829-1040.

The ITIN process can take between eight to ten weeks, so be sure to allow plenty of time and be patient. However, the process is completely free.

Can ITIN Holders Apply for ITIN Loans?

All persons who possess an ITIN number can apply for a loan. Such a loan is meant to improve the owner’s financial situation. For example, if you hold an ITIN and you’re starting or expanding a business or buying a car or a house you could apply for an ITIN loan.

One consideration everyone should always take into account is the fact that, since you don’t need to be a citizen to get an ITIN, you will probably be asked to put more money up front for any transaction.

How Can You Apply for ITIN Loans?

There are plenty of entities that may provide an ITIN loan. Nonetheless, the specific requirements and criteria will depend on the bank or other lender.

In order to have a higher chance of getting a loan, you will need to build a credit history first. The best way to go about this is to obtain a credit card, use it continuously, and have the bank raise your limit. Also, you must make each payment on time to build up your credit organically. And while unsecured debt seems daunting, more so if you live in Texas, options to pay off debts with a Texas debt relief program are possible.

In the end, both the ITIN number and loan are opportunities for economic growth for noncitizens. Whatever the migratory status of the foreigner, this identification number permits an improvement to their situation.

Conclusion

Whether it is for starting a new business or for personal use, an ITIN serves as conduit for paying taxes during the tax filing season. Even more importantly, however, it provides a way for foreigners to boost their financial situation by obtaining an ITIN loan while they are living in the US.